SWFL children, teens encouraged to 'reach for the stars'

FORT MYERS, Fla. - EntSun -- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County showcased the promise and potential found every day in its clubs, connecting community leaders and advocates with ambitious children and teens whose potential is unlimited.

The nonprofit's annual gala on Oct. 24 in Fort Myers drew 160 supporters and sponsors for an exuberant celebration of the promise of local youth. The event's theme, Reach for the Stars, reflected a goal set each time a new member walks into the club.

Gala guests enjoyed cocktails, dinner and member-led tours of Park Meadows Community Club, including The Club Teen Center, a new space reserved exclusively for members 13 and older to collaborate with their peers, complete homework, socialize and plan for their future. Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County incorporated children and teens into its entire gala program, from welcoming guests and giving tours to singing, dancing and speaking.

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One by one, students went on stage to tell audience members their dreams and career plans, which include becoming an ultrasound technician, scientist, mathematician, teacher, voice actor and other professions.

Cam F. Awesome, a 12-time national champion and the winningest boxer in USA Boxing history, delivered a keynote address that motivated and inspired youth as well as supporters in attendance. As a child, he struggled academically and socially, and was often the victim of bullying. Once he discovered his passion for boxing, Awesome embraced failure as a catalyst for growth and began to cultivate a championship mindset that redefined his life.

Reach for the Stars raised $140,000 to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County's after-school and summer programs, which offer homework assistance and tutoring services, as well as project-based learning activities, arts instruction, sports and recreation programs, and service and leadership projects. Clubs integrate technology into daily activities to enhance learning and play. Clubs serve youth ages six through 18 and programs focus on five core areas: education and career, service and leadership, health and wellness, the arts, and sports and recreation.

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LMCU was the title sponsor of Reach for the Stars. Additional sponsors included Total Electric as dinner sponsor; the Maylene & Wen Wu Family Foundation as guest speaker sponsor; Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith as reception sponsor; TrapBag as bar sponsor; Lee Health as photo sponsor; and B&I Contractors as valet sponsor. Table sponsors included Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers, Suncoast Credit Union, Knox Technology, Rasmussen Family Dental, Wildcat Renovation and Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings.